(September 14, 1924 – January 5, 2014)

With heavy hearts we remember one of our era’s TRUE Heroes.

A Hero for the ages that was a role model in every sense of the word that will be forever loved and remembered in San Diego.

Gerald Francis “Jerry” Coleman, WWII and Korean War Veteran, MLB Hall of Famer, radio and TV Broadcaster, Retired Padres Manager, and Retired new York Yankee has passed away at the age of 88.

“The Colonel” as we know him in San Diego, was the “Voice of the Padres”.  But Mr Coleman was much more than that.

Jerry Coleman was much bigger than baseball.

Last Sunday was a day of extreme highs and lows for San Diego Sports fans as the underdog Chargers went into Cincinnati and reigned victorious in the Wild Card Playoff Game.  Shortly thereafter; San Diego State achieved one of their greatest all time victories beating highly ranked Kansas on their home turf.  During the Aztec game, play by play commentator and long time radio partner to Jerry Coleman, Ted Leitner announced his passing.

Ted Leitner’s emotional announcement can be heard here:  “My Heart is now Breaking with the Loss of Jerry Coleman”.

Mr. Coleman touched so many people in his life, and to hear the testimonials over the past week, it is evident what kind of man he was.

He was honored on Monday by Padres owners and management at the monument where he is rightfully honored at the Eastern entrance of Petco Park.

Fans, Friends and Family stopped by to give their respects, deliver flowers, share stories, and reflect on an individual that we can all look up to.

To learn more about Jerry Coleman and  the statue in which he is honored, click the following link:  Jerry Coleman Statue